Choose Your Lighting to Set the Right Mood

Lighting can impact the experience of a room more than any other architectural element. Besides the obvious function, lighting can be used to evoke predetermined emotional responses. The first step in lighting a space is to think about its functionality; how do you plan on using the space? Will your dining room be strictly for entertaining in the evening or will it double as a homework center? By answering questions like these you will know how much light you will need for the tasks at hand. Then we can move on to focus on the mood you want to promote in your different scenarios.

Bedrooms, spas and relaxing spaces benefit from soft diffused lighting – dimmers and warmer lights are calming and more desired. They minimize the harsh shadows and provide a more relaxing and visually compelling environment. Diffused lighting lacks in shadows and highlights, which can create a dull and boring atmosphere. Add a few direct lighting sources to highlight different textures and create some interest. Direct lighting creates highlights and shadows and is great as a complement to your primary light source.

In contrast to soft lighting, higher levels of illumination create cheerfulness and alertness. Combine direct lighting with an overall higher level of ambient lights; think brighter over head lighting, lamps or recessed lighting. Higher levels of light should be directed over specific task areas. Create a playful mood by positioning lighting fixtures to create rhythms with the highlights and shadows. Reflections and diffusions create an active effect on an atmosphere.